How To Earn College Credit for Work Experience in 2025-2026
College isn’t just for recent high school graduates. More and more adults are heading back to school—and many bring years of professional experience with them. What if you could turn that experience into college credits and save both time and money?
Good news: you can. Many accredited colleges offer ways to earn college credit for work experience, certifications, military service, and more. In this guide, we’ll explain how it works, what to expect, and how to get started.
What Is Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)?
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), also known as Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), is a process that allows colleges to evaluate your knowledge and skills gained outside the classroom—including from your job—and potentially convert that into college credit.
Types of Experience That May Qualify
Not all work experience counts, but many types of learning do. You may qualify if you have experience in areas such as:
- Full-time or part-time professional work
- Industry certifications (e.g., CompTIA, PMP, CNA)
- Military service or training
- Volunteer work or community leadership
- On-the-job training or apprenticeships
- Business ownership or entrepreneurship
- Licenses in fields like real estate, teaching, or healthcare
Popular Ways to Earn Credit for Work Experience
Here are the main methods colleges use to award credit:
1. Portfolio Assessment
Many schools allow you to build a portfolio showcasing your relevant experience. It typically includes:
- A detailed resume
- Documentation of your work (projects, certifications, evaluations)
- A written narrative explaining how your experience aligns with course outcomes
- References or employer letters
This method is most common in liberal arts, business, and human services programs.
2. Standardized Exams
Some colleges accept standardized exams as proof of college-level learning. Popular options include:
| Exam Type | Description |
|---|---|
| CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) | Offers 30+ exams in subjects like math, history, and writing |
| DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) | Originally for military but open to civilians, too |
| UExcel Exams | Offered by Excelsior University in a variety of topics |
Passing these exams can earn you 3–6 credits per subject.
3. Military and Corporate Training Evaluations
If you’ve completed military training or corporate-sponsored programs, these may already be evaluated for credit by the American Council on Education (ACE) or National College Credit Recommendation Service (NCCRS).
Schools that accept ACE/NCCRS credit will often apply it toward general education or electives.
4. Challenge Exams
Some colleges let you take in-house exams to test out of specific courses. If you pass, you’ll earn full credit for the class without taking it.
5. Credit for Certifications and Licenses
If you hold a professional license or certificate, your school may award credit based on what you’ve already learned. Examples include:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
- EMT Certification
- Real Estate License
- AWS Cloud Practitioner Certification
- Microsoft or Adobe Credentials
How Much Credit Can You Earn?
The number of credits you can earn varies by institution. However, most schools allow:
- Up to 30 credits for prior learning (the equivalent of one full year)
- Some programs allow even more if you’re pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree
- Credit may be applied to electives, general education, or core classes, depending on alignment
Benefits of Earning Credit for Work Experience
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Save Money | Fewer classes mean less tuition and fees |
| Graduate Faster | Skip introductory or redundant courses |
| Stay Motivated | Recognition of your experience boosts confidence |
| Reduce Student Loan Debt | Smaller course load leads to lower borrowing |
Colleges That Commonly Offer Work Experience Credit
Many regionally accredited schools offer generous PLA policies. Some top options include:
- Thomas Edison State University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Western Governors University
- Charter Oak State College
- Purdue University Global
- University of Maryland Global Campus
Always check with admissions or an academic advisor before applying to see how each school handles credit evaluation.
How to Get Started
- Research Schools with PLA Programs
Look for colleges that clearly outline their process and accept multiple types of credit. - Gather Your Experience and Documentation
Collect your resume, certificates, job descriptions, and performance reviews. - Meet with an Academic Advisor
Get clarity on what qualifies for credit and what courses you may be able to skip. - Choose the Right Credit Path
Decide whether portfolio assessment, exams, or certification reviews make the most sense. - Submit Your Materials and Wait for Review
The evaluation process may take a few weeks. You’ll be notified of accepted credits.
Earning college credit for work experience is a smart way to save money, finish your degree faster, and turn your hard-earned skills into a recognized academic credential. Whether you’re returning to school or just getting started, don’t overlook what you already know.
With the right preparation and guidance, your job could be the key to your next diploma.